David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputies for their support for the Bill which is short but nevertheless important legislation. It will facilitate transposition of an EU directive on attacks against information systems and also implement key provisions of the Council of Europe convention on cybercrime. There is a clear need for international co-operation in the area of cybercrime and the harmonisation of national laws to counter this threat. This is because cybercrime is an international phenomenon that transcends geographical boundaries. It is a worldwide problem that knows or respects no borders. By strengthening laws across and beyond Europe, we present a unified front against cybercrime and ensure there are no legislative gaps that can be exploited by those who seek to undermine information systems and their data. This legislation will allow us to stand alongside our European partners in combating criminality in this area and protecting vital infrastructures for the benefits of governments, businesses and individual citizens alike. I hope Report and Final Stages of the Bill can be taken as soon as possible.